Did Realtor Gill Join BJP Just Before Punjab Vigilance Bureau Raids?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ranjit Singh Gill joined the BJP just before the raids.
- The Punjab Vigilance Bureau's actions raise questions about political motivations.
- BJP leaders defend Gill against allegations of political targeting.
- Gill has a history of community service and political involvement.
- The situation highlights the complex relationship between politics and law enforcement.
Chandigarh, Aug 2 (NationPress) Just a few hours after realtor and former Shiromani Akali Dal general secretary Ranjit Singh Gill made the decision to join the BJP, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau executed raids at his residence in Chandigarh on Saturday.
Gill, who faced defeat in the Assembly elections from Kharar, officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday night.
The induction took place at the home of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.
BJP leader Subhash Sharma came to Gill's defense, criticizing the Bhagwant Mann-led AAP government for engaging in what he described as "vindictive politics".
"This situation exemplifies the blatant misuse of investigative agencies like Vigilance as a political instrument. The raid on Ranjit Singh Gill's residence fits this narrative," Sharma stated during a news broadcast.
When questioned about the timing and location of Gill's BJP induction, which occurred without the presence of the party's state leadership, he explained, "Due to the unavailability of senior Punjab BJP leaders in Chandigarh and Chief Minister Saini returning at 9:30 p.m. from Delhi, the event was held at his residence."
However, AAP spokesperson Neel Garg defended the Vigilance raid, stating, "Let the investigative agency perform its duties. They may have valid evidence justifying their actions."
He dismissed the BJP's claims of the government practicing vindictiveness against opponents.
Welcoming Gill, the owner of the Gillco Group, known for its various projects across Mohali district, CM Saini remarked, "Individuals impressed by the governance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the successes of BJP-ruled states are joining our development-focused mission."
He added, "Ranjit Singh Gill is well-regarded in Kharar due to his community service efforts. He will be afforded the respect and opportunities to aid the populace through the BJP platform."
Gill, previously aligned with Sukhbir Badal, resigned from the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on July 18, voicing concerns over the party's drift from its foundational principles and disconnection from grassroots activists.
He contested the Assembly elections in 2017 and 2022 from Kharar.